Legends of courage, splendour and engineering marvels are woven throughout Rajasthan, commonly referred to as the “Land of Kings.” Stunning forts and opulent palaces cover its horizon, acting as lasting reminders of the glorious past of the Rajput dynasty. With its exquisite combination of Rajput, Mughal and European architectural influences, these ancient marvels, placed strategically atop hills or in the heart of metropolitan cities, offered travellers a unique and captivating glimpse into India’s imperial heritage.

The top 10 must-visit palaces and forts, featured here, are the epitome of Rajasthani splendor and offer a glimpse into the state’s glorious cultural history.

10 must-visit forts and palaces in Rajasthan:

Jaipur –

The grand Amber Fort is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and lies in the capital city of Jaipur. The marble and red sandstone fort complex is famous for its rich architecture, including the stunning Sheesh Mahal, and its strategic position on Maota Lake. Jaipur includes the well-known Hawa Mahal, a five-storey façade comprising 953 small windows intended to allow royal ladies to catch sight of street life without themselves being noticed. City Palace occupies the heart of the city and is still the residence of the former royal family.

Jodhpur –

The massive Mehrangarh Fort is perched on a 400-foot hilltop in Jodhpur, the Blue City looming over the skyline. One of India’s largest and well-kept forts, it is famous not only for its huge, imposing walls but also for its internal group of stunningly adorned palaces and courtyards. Jodhpur is also the setting for the palatial Umaid Bhawan Palace, a newer architectural marvel featuring Indo-Saracenic and Western art deco styles that is partly converted into a luxury historical hotel, with part still reserved for the royal family.

Udaipur –

In the City of Lakes, Udaipur is famous for its serene lakes of Lake Pichola and a blend of Mughal and Rajasthani architecture, the epitome of royal splendour. Also known as the Lake Palace, seems to be suspended above the middle of Lake Pichola. It used to be a summer palace but has now been transformed into one of the most stunning luxury hotels on the planet.

Pushkar –

Pushkar is the most popular for its sacred lake and the renowned Brahma Temple, and is also a significant hub of Rajasthani culture and religion. While other cities' martial defences are stark and austere, the town's ambience and surrounding buildings have historically been rich and uniquely based on its history as a pilgrimage site, despite the absence of a large royal fort or castle.

Ranthambore –

Located in Sawai Madhopur, Ranthambore National Park is famous for its Ranthambore Fort, offering a unique blend of wildness and history. Historically enriched routes, the ancient fort sits atop a hill and has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Amid the lush green forests, temples and grand structures offer a unique backdrop to wildlife viewing.

Ajmer –

Mainly as a religious center, Ajmer holds historical importance. It is home to the renowned Taragarh Fort, located atop a tall hill with an overview of the city. Popularly known as another name, the Star Fort, is a dominating fort that was a military center during the Mughal period. The Ajmer Sharif Dargah, a significant historical and religious landmark, continues to be the main attraction of Ajmer.

Jaisalmer –

The Jaisalmer Fort, also known as Sonar Qila, rises majestically from the Thar Desert with its walls of yellow sandstone. It’s a significant site for being among the only living forts on the planet, as a significant portion of the city’s inhabitants still reside within its perimeters, and it was built in AD. It has a special charm that is quite desert-fairy tale-like and is augmented by its intricate Jain Temples and merchant Havelis.

Chittorgarh –

One of India’s largest forts, the Chittorgarh Fort, is a formidable UNESCO World Heritage Site that runs along the length of a gigantic hill. Have been witness to several heroic sieges; it is the epitome of Rajput valour, pride and selflessness. The complex houses the majestic Victory and Fame towers, palaces like the Padmini’s palace and Rana Kumbha Palace and ancient temples.

Mount Abu –

Being a famous hill station, Mount Abu is better renowned for its peaceful and spiritual locations than for its enormous forts. The most famous attraction of the town is the Dilwara Jain Temples, brilliantly carved with marble architecture. It’s surrounded by the ancient Achalgarh Fort and possesses a beautiful temple complex, adding a historical touch to the otherwise spiritual destination.

Bikaner –

The magnificent Junagarh Fort was built on the plains instead of a hilltop, an impressive fort in the desert city of Bikaner. The fort-palace complex was founded in 1589, enclosing Anup Mahal and the Chandra Mahal. These are famous for their lavish ornamentation and elaborate paintings, which reflect a blend of Mughal, Rajput and Gujarati architectural styles.

Conclusion –

The enormous forts and palaces represent the apogee of Rajasthani architecture and the glorious history of the Rajput rulers. Every spot is a tangible and living connection to the past, be it the imposing hill forts that testify to the martial skill or the beautiful palaces that speak of courtly life.